WASHINGTON, DC - The US Senate today approved Senator Herb Kohl's request to direct $871,730 toward the expansion of the Eagle River Airport in the FY10 Omnibus Appropriations Bill. Senator Kohl, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, identified this project as a priority for funding. 

"The Eagle River Airport serves many passengers flying both for business and pleasure," Kohl said. "It has come to light that the main parking ramp has begun to crack which is very concerning. This funding will work to expand the ramp and increase safety at the airport."

Eagle River Union Airport, classified as a Transport/Corporate airport in the State Airport System Plan (SASP), serves business jets, air taxi operations, and recreational users. Funding will be used to expand and reconstruct the main ramp. The main aircraft parking ramp has seen increased use by corporate aircraft, including jets. The majority of the ramp was constructed in 1975. Pavement inspections conducted by the Bureau of Aeronautics indicate the pavement has exceeded its useful life. There are numerous large cracks throughout the entire structure of the surface. Expansion of the ramp near the airport terminal area will provide needed additional aircraft tie-down spaces, creating a safe area for planes to park and tie-down, especially in the summer months when traffic increases.

The funding measure was passed by the Senate, and now goes to the President for final approval.    

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